Eating disorders affect young girls about ten times more than men. These disorders either involve a constant preoccupation with (junk) food or a much-distorted idea of a good body image and eventually, extreme measures taken just to control weight. It is because of these excessive measures that one’s physical and mental health is greatly harmed.
But did you know that eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia can wreak havoc in your mouth? In fact, just in the first few years of these illnesses, teeth can get worn and cracked. This kind of damage is caused by frequent vomiting. Of course, when food is restricted like with anorexia, it can also have harmful effects on a person’s teeth.
Damages to the teeth that are linked to eating disorders are often indicative of chemical and mechanical wear. The enamel can be eroded by excessive acid that comes from different origins in the body. It can get thinner and as time passes by, the dentine which is very sensitive gets exposed. This situation is aggravated by inappropriate brushing, abrasive food, and even teeth attrition. Where the damage is worst is an indication of the cause.
For example, the damage that is caused by vomiting often affects the back of the teeth and at the gum line around the incisors, because those areas are where the stomach acid comes into contact with.
Patients with bulimia may also be exposing their teeth to gastroesophageal reflux during the night, which means the damage happens even as the person is sleeping and unaware of it. Acid reflux damage is often found around one side of the jaw, depending on the sleep position. Of course, the front teeth can be damaged when a person drinks a lot of acidic beverages. In extreme cases of anorexia, the gums recede too much and expose the roots of the teeth to acid and your damaging tooth brushing action.
How Can Patients Stop the Damage?
While still battling these eating disorders, it is highly recommended that the patient rinses his or her mouth with tap water after vomiting. Wait for about 20 minutes before brushing. You can also do this after eating or drinking food and beverages that are acidic.
When brushing your teeth, make sure that you do it vertically, starting from the gum line to the ends. The bristles of the toothbrush should reach between the teeth. Choose a non-abrasive toothpaste.
You can give us a call at 905-420-1777, and we’d be happy to schedule you for a check-up. We’d like to help you achieve a better oral health and a more beautiful smile!
Helpful Resources
For more information, visit the Government of Canada Oral Health Guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I visit the dentist?
The Canadian Dental Association recommends visiting your dentist at least twice a year for regular check-ups and cleanings. Some patients may need more frequent visits depending on their oral health needs. Call Pickering Square Dental at (905) 420-1777 to schedule your next appointment.
Do you accept the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP)?
Yes, Pickering Square Dental participates in the Canadian Dental Care Plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and ensure you receive the dental care you need. Contact us for more details about CDCP eligibility and benefits.
What services does Pickering Square Dental offer?
We offer a full range of dental services including family dentistry, emergency dental care, sedation dentistry, dental implants, laser dentistry, teeth whitening, root canal therapy, dental extractions, periodontal care, and cosmetic dentistry. Dr. Lean and our team serve patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, and Scarborough.
About Dr. Marvin Lean, DDS
Dr. Marvin Lean, DDS, is the owner and lead dentist at Pickering Square Dental. With decades of experience in family and laser dentistry, Dr. Lean is also the official dentist of the Toronto Maple Leafs. He is a member of the Ontario Dental Association (ODA) and the Canadian Dental Association (CDA). Dr. Lean and his team provide comprehensive dental care including sedation dentistry, dental implants, emergency dental care, and the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP) to patients in Pickering, Ajax, Whitby, Scarborough, Oshawa, and Markham.
